An Introduction to Science and Technology Studies

Reviews / Votes

"Sergio Sismondo's book represents a very useful andclear introduction to Science and Technology Studies (STS), arelatively new academic field that has at its core the relationshipbetween scientific knowledge, technological systems, and society .. . The rich set of references can help readers who want to learnmore." (Theor Med Bioeth, 1 May 2012) Praise for first edition "For an introduction to science and technology studies, onecannot find a better book. Sismondo sets a high standard forclarity of writing for books aimed at university students. Theimportant historical background blends well with the underlyingphilosophical and sociological concepts. Extremely important to allreaders are the boxed-text case studies, definitions, and examplesthat permeate and intelligently adorn every chapte. The index andreferences immensely help readers desiring to learn more."(Choice, November 2003) "Carefully argued and well balanced...topics are handledwith a clarity and lightness... overall impression...of a fieldwith solid foundations that is looking to the future."(ISIS)Praise for first edition "Sismondo's much-needed book fills a gap left by existingintroductions to the field of science and technology studies. Itconsistently and usefully integrates philosophical concerns withthe critical social science perspectives that have dominated thefield. It also offers excellent capsule surveys of some of thefield's most influential thinkers." -Sheila Jasanoff, Harvard University "This book is a wonderful tool with which to think. It offers anexpansive introduction to the field of science studies, a richexploration of the theoretical terrains it comprises and a sheaf ofwell-reasoned opinions that will surely inspire argument." -Geoffrey C. Bowker, University of California, SanDiego "Science and technology studies is one of the most important andexciting new interdisciplinary fields in the academy. SergioSismondon is to be congratulated for producing an introductorytextbook that is authoritative, accessible, and without rival. Thisbook quickly become an indispensable teaching aid." -Trevor Pinch, Cornell University